Bye, Bye Cancer Sticks

CANTON, Mich. - In 14 days, bars and the majority of businesses in Michigan will be kicking the habit, "cold turkey."

At 6 a.m. May 1, Michigan’s Smoke Free Air Law officialy goes into affect. This will prohibiting smoking in workplaces and public areas, such as restaurants, bars, hotels or any other place that serves food or beverages.

Not only does this rule apply to outdoor restaurants, cafe's, ect., it also applies to some casinos and cigar bars.

In December of last year, the govenor officially signed the legislation making the state of Michigan smoke free.

"I think it sucks," said Alexis Stanton, a 23-year-old healthcare worker and smoker of more than 10 years. "My job won't even allow us to smoke outside on the property when this passes, so I'll have to walk all the way to my car."

According to Michigan.gov, the law was passed to "preserve and improve the health, comfort, and environment of the people of the state by limiting exposure to secondhand smoke."

If a citizen breaks this law, he or she is to be reported to a manager or owner of the facility, in which they will be asked to put it out. There are no penalties set for individuals who violate the ban, as they will be posted at a later date.

(Photo- a woman (me) in the car smoking, taken by Sophia Tesfaye)